About the Song
When we think of Creedence Clearwater Revival, images of swampy Southern rock, John Fogerty’s gritty vocals, and hits like “Proud Mary” and “Bad Moon Rising” often come to mind. However, their final album, “Mardi Gras,” released in 1972, painted a different picture. It was a time of internal tensions and creative disagreements within the band, and this was reflected in the music. One track that stands out for its raw honesty and poignant lyrics is “Take It Like A Friend,” written and sung by bassist Stu Cook.
On the surface, “Take It Like A Friend” is a straightforward rock song with a catchy melody and a driving rhythm. But beneath the surface lies a story of frustration and disillusionment. The lyrics speak of someone who refuses to share the spotlight, who “runs up closer” and tries to “grab a page before they close the book.” It’s not hard to imagine that Cook was addressing John Fogerty, who had been the band’s primary songwriter and creative force up until that point.
The song has a bittersweet quality to it. There’s a sense of resignation in Cook’s voice, as if he’s accepted that the band’s days are numbered. But there’s also a hint of defiance, a refusal to go down without a fight. The chorus, with its repeated plea to “take it like a friend,” is both a challenge and a lament. It’s a call for understanding and compromise, but it also acknowledges the likelihood that those pleas will fall on deaf ears.
“Take It Like A Friend” is a fascinating glimpse into the final days of one of America’s most iconic rock bands. It’s a testament to the power of music to express complex emotions and tell stories that resonate with listeners long after the final notes have faded away. While “Mardi Gras” may not be Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most celebrated album, songs like “Take It Like A Friend” offer a unique perspective on the band’s legacy and remind us that even the most successful artists are not immune to the challenges of collaboration and creative differences.